Council follows the Fire Danger Period (FDP) Restrictions declared by CFA. The duration of this period is dependent on the weather.
The Fire Danger Period (FDP) will begin 1 am Monday 20 November 2023. For up to date information, please check on the CFA website
What is a Fire Danger Period?
This is a time of year when the fire danger risk is deemed to be high by the CFA. This period extends from late spring, through summer and into autumn, when conditions are dry and hot.
The CFA advertises the date of commencement of the FDP in local newspapers. The commencement and finish of the FDP can be different from Shire to Shire, so inquiries should always be made if you intend to burn or if you see fires burning during the FDP.
Further information for planned burning, warnings and incidents can be obtained from the VicEmergency Hotline on 1800 226 226.
During the Fire Danger Period, fires in the open are subject to legal restrictions. No burning will be allowed at all in towns, this includes incinerators. A fact sheet has been prepared by the CFA which advises what can or can't be done during the Fire Danger Period and on days of total fire ban.
In State Forests, National Parks and other reserves, Department of Environment Land Water and Planning (DEWLP) fire restrictions remain in force all year round. Contact DEWLP and Parks Victoria to obtain further advice about what campfire restrictions may apply.
No burning is permitted during the FDP without a Permit to Burn issued by the CFA. Application for permit and further information can be found on the Victoria Government's Fire Permits site.
Alternatively you can reduce your fuel load and dispose of waste by:
- Green waste can be taken to Council’s transfer stations. Keeping green waste separate to other materials will significantly reduce disposal fees. Further information is available on Council's Rubbish and Recycling (weekly green waste collection) page.
- Fine fuels, such as grass, leaves and bark, can be very useful for mulching the garden.
More Information
More information about preparing your property can be obtained on our fire ready page.
Burning off outside of the Fire Danger Period is allowed, however the following conditions apply:
- In township areas - burning off is only allowed if the fire is 1m by 1m and must be extinguished before sunset.
- Register your burn at least 30 minutes before ignition with Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority (ESTA) 1800 668 511
- Establish a fire break of no less than three metres cleared of all flammable material
- Ensure a water supply is available with enough water to extinguish the fire if required
- Never leave the fire unattended
- Comply with CFA conditions
- Comply with General Local Law (Local Law No 1) open air burning (pg 9).